From season-to-season clients will notice a change in their skin. Therefore, their concerns will change, and therapists need to be ready to update the services they provide. Professionals can get stuck in a rut and continue to just “rinse and repeat” without addressing the actual problem. Many factors lead to a change in the skin, both external and internal. Stress can be a huge factor as the more relaxed months of summer come to an end. Changes with central heating can dehydrate the skin and cause irritation and increase in redness and sensitivity.
I often see clients with a build up in congestion around this time of year. Often clients will be using sun creams
and tans that are not ideal for the face. Also, people can neglect their skincare routines over the summer months. A bit like getting back to the gym in September, it can often be a reset for people with their skincare.
Deep pore cleansing, resurfacing and addressing hyperpigmentation are treatments that will work well for most clients in Autumn. A course of gentle peels with good hydration that do not disrupt the skin’s protective barrier are ideal. My favourite is the Biolight® Brightening Miracle Facial by Repêchage®
Whilst salon treatments are great to kick start healthy skin the real work is done at home. We cannot underestimate the power of homecare that is done every day. The skin as the largest organ in the body is our first line of defence. We must protect and maintain that skin barrier for healthy skin. Therapists need to properly educate their clients on how to use products and ‘why’ they are using them. If someone knows the benefit of using something they are much more likely to use it then if they are just told to do so.
Diet and supplements can be a key factor when it comes to skin health. Omegas and essential fatty acids are a must. From my experience many people who use Vitamin A on the skin can get a negative response in these months, so I would also advise Vit A supplements as this can help build up the vitamin A in the skin resulting in less irritation.
Good hydration of course is a given. Sometimes our other organs can be very selfish and take all the good hydration we drink! A topical serum such as C- Serum by Repêchage® can be the ideal ’drink for your skin’.
Mineral face shields that will protect against the changes in weather, cold, wind and sunlight are an important part for everyone home routine. Mineral face Shield by Repêchage® is a unique all year round environmental shield. Perfect as a primer under make up or used on it’s own. It is oil and water free so suitable for all skin types and doesn’t move on the face. Definitely a #1. for the winter months.
I would advise clients not to “over exfoliate” causing the skin to become sensitised. Just because you ‘can’ do a course of microdermabrasion doesn’t mean you need to. Sometimes less can be more so this is an area where I would definitely seek good skincare advice.
When it comes to salon/spa services it is important to appeal to your clients needs. Think about what we look forward to in the winter evenings. Fires blazing, candles lit and getting comfy and cosey. We need to create a similar environment in the treatment room. Whist best to avoid all these flames! You can still create a cosy feel, warm blankets, soft lighting and warm products. Soothing warm drinks and relaxing massage treatments. Wellness and indulgent treatments are always popular. The Repêchage® 4 Layer facial and Cellusea® Body Treatment envelopes the whole body with warmth and relaxation while at the same time delivering amazing results for the skin.
Invite your clients to a complementary ‘add on’ treatment such as a leg massage with warm oil and use breathing techniques with some appropriate essential oils. Incorporate extra massage to the head, hands and shoulders to optimise their relaxation. You can be guaranteed they will add these to their next service.
I think many therapists have lost their way a little. Everything is about the before and after pic for Instagram. Our services have become so clinical. Yes, these are both important, but it is also crucial to remember that people will remember how you made them feel a lot longer than a 20 second Instagram post. Word of mouth is still the best way to drive business to your salon/spa. Leave your clients feeling like they never want to leave the salon. They will be back for more and tell all their friends.
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